So, you are thinking of taking a FELDENKRAIS class
, and you are wondering what to expect.
In this article, I break down the FELDENKRAIS classes into two types.
Awareness Through Movement® (ATM) lessons are taught to groups or individuals. I verbally guide you through a sequence of gentle movements. Usually you will begin by lying on the floor, but some ATM lessons may take place sitting on the floor or in a chair, or standing. Try to avoid eating heavily before your lesson (light snacks are fine), and dress comfortably for movement.
Functional Integration® (FI) lessons are taught to individuals. Dress comfortably for movement. Your lessons may begin with you sitting or lying on a special low, padded table. I guide you by communicating through a gentle, listening touch and movement, as well as with words. (Only Guild Certified Feldenkrais Practitioners(cm) are authorized to teach Functional Integration lessons.)
In both ATM and FI lessons, you will become more aware of how you move in habitual ways. Each lesson helps you to explore alternatives that you might not have thought of otherwise. Through increased awareness, you learn to move with minimal effort and maximum efficiency. As Moshe Feldenkrais said, “We can… make the impossible, possible; the possible, easy; and the easy, elegant.”
What can the Feldenkrais Method® do for me?
- Experience greater ease and grace in everyday movements
- Experience more awareness of self
- Improve breathing
- Improve overall coordination
- Reduce mental and physical stress
- Enjoy life while “aging gracefully”
- Improve performance in music, dance, acting, athletics, creativity
- Experience alternative ways to carry out habitual actions
- Improve posture
- Improve self image
